Reports Of Sexual Crime Rise In Barking And Dagenham

More than 2,000 sexual offences were reported to the police in Barking and Dagenham over 5 years, new data can reveal.

The Metropolitan Police Service has recorded a total of 2,091 incidents, which include rape, sexual harrassment and assualt, between 2015 and 2019.

Every year more people are coming forward with reports of sexual crime. There were 151 more reports made in 2019 compared to 2015.

This is despite two-thirds of all cases not ending in further action because of “evidential difficulties”; 1,388 incidents in total.

These findings were made by media literacy charity The Student View.

Victims of these crimes can report it to the police or visit The Havens specialist centres in London, which can provide medical help and emotional support.

In a letter to all Haven attendees, Metropolitan Police Service Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick wrote that whether the victim reports the crime to the police or not, the force takes “sexual assault and rape seriously”.

It read: “Rape and sexual assault are very serious crimes against the person. They also have significant implications for public safety.

“The Metropolitan police will investigate these crimes and deal with the perpetrators as a matter of priority. We prefer that you report directly and as early as possible as this helps evidence collection.”

Dame Cressida Dick also addressed concerns for those who were afraid to report the incident to police due to their immigration status, drug use or occupation.

She wrote: “Some people have concerns about involving the police. Some are worried that their assault will not be taken seriously.

“I cannot make a guarantee about every  police officers’ actions in all cases.  But I would like to reassure you that my main priority is the investigation and tackling of these very serious crimes.”

Information can also be provided anonymously via the Crimestoppers website or calling 0800 555 111.